What's That Bug? does not endorse extermination

Asp: Caterpillar of the Southern Flannel Moth

Posted by December 12th, 2010 at 10:24 pm

Categories

Asps

wild larva
Location: Davie, FL
December 12, 2010 2:21 pm
Bugman, I consider myself somewhat of a pro at south florida lepidoptera as i was a professional butterfly breeder for a few years, but I found a larva today that I’ve never seen. While I was excited at seeing something new in my own backyard, not knowing what it is frustrates me to no end! Please help. Found it on the ground under some sea grape and oak trees.
Signature: Brett

asp brent 300x245 Asp:  Caterpillar of the Southern Flannel Moth

Asp

Dear Brent,
You have encountered the infamous Asp, the caterpillar of the Southern Flannel Moth,
Megalopyge opercularis.  It gets its common name as it is quite capable of delivering a painful sting.

asp brent 2 300x216 Asp:  Caterpillar of the Southern Flannel Moth

Asp

Thanks very much for your confirmation.  Shortly after emailing you I figured it out, but thanks very much for your help anyway!  You provide a great service.

Related Posts

 

Comments 2

  1. moonnbeamm wrote:

    If you are stung by this caterpillar, as fast as you can smash it into the spot. This will stop the sting reaction.

    Posted 30 Jan 2011 at 12:42 pm
  2. bugman wrote:

    Can you provide any documentation regarding this remedy?

    Posted 30 Jan 2011 at 1:02 pm

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

Post a Comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.